Videogames and Gamers in the Library

Q. I couldn't help one of our teen patrons download cheat codes onto his little videogame player and I can't stop thinking about it. How can I find out more about videogames and all the different gaming devices?

A. The wireless Internet access available in many public libraries has attracted not just laptop users but also gamers, including those using the Nintendo DS.

The world of gaming can be a little overwhelming all at once so start slow:

1) Look through some of the gaming magazines during your next visit to a bookstore or drugstore. Some of them look (and are!) pretty intense and seem to talk in a whole other language, but choose one that makes sense to you, one that is written rather clearly and directly, and covers all the different types of video games--handhelds, consoles, PC--such as GamePro or Game Informer.

2) Check to see if your cable company carries the video game cable channel, G4 TV. There's a lot of shows, but I'd recommend starting off with X-Play, which humorously but knowingly reviews videogames. Even if you don't have the channel, there are online video clips, podcasts, and e-newsletters available on the web site.

3) To build your knowledge about teens, gaming and libraries, consider getting involved with the Young Adult Library Services Association (YALSA). YALSA has a Gaming Interest Group that interested members are welcome to participate in. The winter 2007 issue of YALSA's journal, Young Adult Library Services, features a few articles on gaming in the library. YALSA will host its 3rd annual Gaming Night Extravaganza on Friday Jan. 11th at ALA's 2008 Midwinter Meeting, or attend ALA's 2008 Annual Conference in Anaheim where YALSA will host a gaming program.